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June 11, 2014

After Thoughts on My Open Studio

It's been a few days and I've been recovering from a busy weekend. I wish to thank everyone who attended my Open Studio event this weekend. We had over 200 visitors and many works sold. I'm happy to report that my studio was among the most lively studios in the building, buzzing with Salsa and Cumbias, children running around painting butterflies, and folks engaging in dynamic conversations about art and politics. The vibe that everyone helped create was one of community, culture, positivity and love.

For a moment during the event, as I sat down to watch folks around me, I realized that I was co-creating a multi-racial space where our communities could connect and relate to the powerful role of art in our life. Perhaps some take for granted that many formal art spaces have traditionally excluded people of color. Therefore, I intentionally work against in my work and create spaces where our communities feel welcome, as I believe that art is a right for all.

I especially believe that art is not just an end product, but a process that includes many voices, not just the artist's voice. In my work, I create spaces of healing and creativity, and this weekend was a big testament that. The highlight of the weekend was an 86 year old woman approached me to say that she had heard my Creative Mornings talk on the internet, and she came a long distance just to give me a hug. When she hugged me she asked me to breathe in and out. It was wonderful! Thank you all for attending and supporting my work!